Column: Gavin Newsom’s failure to close Aliso Canyon is hurting us all

Environmental activists and San Fernando Valley residents urge Gov. Linda Serizawa, who was tapped by Newsom to lead the utilities commission’s Public Advocates Office, said state officials have to be “very careful about setting unrealistic expectations” when it comes to closing Aliso. SoCalGas spokesperson Erica Berardi said in an email that the utility agrees with state officials that Aliso Canyon “is currently necessary to help keep customers’ electric and gas bills lower and for energy system reliability.” Sucks for Porter Ranch residents. “We’re one in a long line of pissed-off communities where cost-effectiveness runs into us,” said state Sen. Henry Stern, who represents Porter Ranch and has tried for years to shut down Aliso Canyon. Newsom’s spokesperson made a similar point, saying Aliso can’t close until “residents substantially reduce their natural gas consumption.” Look: If you can replace your gas heater with an electric alternative, please do.